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Adding plants to an office with no windows can transform the space, making it feel more inviting and refreshing. While natural light is ideal for plant growth, several resilient species can thrive in low-light conditions.
These plants not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost productivity.
In this article, we’ll explore the best low-light plants that are perfect for offices without windows, along with care tips to keep them healthy.
Why Have Plants in an Office with No Windows?
Working in a windowless office can feel monotonous, especially for nature lovers who thrive on greenery. Without exposure to natural light, employees may feel disconnected from nature, leading to lower morale and productivity.
Benefits of indoor plants in a windowless office:
- Boost Mood & Productivity: Studies show that greenery in workplaces enhances focus, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being.
- Improve Air Quality: Many indoor plants help filter toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, promoting cleaner air.
- Low Maintenance: The right plants require minimal care, making them ideal for busy professionals.
Even without natural sunlight, carefully selected plants can thrive under artificial lighting and bring a refreshing, natural touch to your office space.
Top 8 Plants for an Office with No Windows
Even if your office lacks windows, you can still enjoy the benefits of indoor greenery. These low-light, low-maintenance plants will thrive under artificial lighting and improve your workspace atmosphere.
Quick List of the Best Plants for a Windowless Office:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – Air-purifying and nearly indestructible.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum) – Excellent for removing toxins from the air.
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) – Hardy and adaptable to low light.
- Money Plant (Golden Pothos/Devil’s Ivy) – Thrives in dim conditions and is easy to grow.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Survives with little water and no sunlight.
- Areca Palm – Adds a tropical touch and enhances air quality.
- Maidenhair Fern – Beautiful, delicate foliage suited for indoor environments.
- Philodendron – A great climbing or hanging plant for office décor.
Each of these plants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your office but also improves air quality and requires minimal care.
Top 8 Plants to Have in an Office with no Windows:
Following are the plants which are absolutely amazing to have in your office even if they have no windows.
Even though you may not be an expert gardener, these plants are very easy to grow and are very resistant to dying.
Just adopting a few strategies will make these plants last for a very long time and you will cherish their growth over time.
1) Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, also known as Sansevieria or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is one of the most resilient indoor plants. It can thrive in low-light environments and requires very little maintenance.
This plant is an excellent air purifier, known for filtering toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, making your office air cleaner and fresher.
Care Tips for Snake Plants
- Light Requirements: Thrives in low light but can tolerate some indirect light.
- Watering Needs: Water only when the soil is completely dry (usually once every 2-3 weeks). Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix; avoid retaining excess moisture.
- Bonus Tip: For convenience, you can water it with leftover water from your bottle every couple of weeks!
With its upright, sword-like leaves and modern aesthetic, the Snake Plant is a great addition to any office, bringing a touch of greenery without demanding much effort.
2) Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)
The Spider Plant is one of the best indoor plants for low-light environments. It’s highly adaptable, easy to care for, and a powerful air purifier—known to remove toxins like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide from the air.
This plant also adds visual appeal with its long, arching green leaves featuring white stripes. Plus, it produces small plantlets, or “spiderettes,” that dangle from the mother plant, making it a beautiful hanging or tabletop plant.
Care Tips for Spider Plants
- Light Requirements: Tolerates low light but grows best in indirect light.
- Watering Needs: Water every 5–7 days, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in winter.
- Soil: Well-draining, light potting mix.
- Bonus Tip: If the leaf tips turn brown, try using filtered water, as Spider Plants can be sensitive to tap water chemicals.
With its graceful appearance and low-maintenance needs, the Spider Plant is an ideal choice for any office, bringing a refreshing touch of nature to your workspace.
3) Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is an excellent choice for offices with no windows due to its remarkable adaptability to low light and minimal care requirements. It’s also an effective air purifier, removing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde.
This plant is available in a variety of colors, including dark green, silver, and even shades of red and pink, adding a decorative touch to any workspace.
Care Tips for Chinese Evergreen
- Light Requirements: Thrives in low to moderate light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Watering Needs: Water once every 1–2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Bonus Tip: Chinese Evergreens prefer slightly humid conditions. If the office air is too dry, mist the leaves occasionally.
With its stunning foliage, air-purifying properties, and low maintenance, the Chinese Evergreen is a perfect companion for a windowless office space.
4) Money Plant (Golden Pothos/Devil’s Ivy)
The Money Plant, also known as Golden Pothos or Devil’s Ivy, is one of the hardiest indoor plants that can thrive in low-light conditions. It’s an excellent air purifier, removing toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide, making it ideal for enclosed office spaces.
Additionally, its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves add a beautiful, natural touch to any workspace. You can let it climb a trellis or place it in a hanging pot for an elegant display.
Care Tips for Money Plant
- Light Requirements: Grows well in low to moderate indirect light but can adapt to artificial lighting.
- Watering Needs: Water once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Soil: Use well-draining potting soil with good aeration.
- Bonus Tip: To promote lush growth, trim the vines occasionally and wipe the leaves to remove dust buildup.
With its easy maintenance, air-purifying benefits, and aesthetic appeal, the Money Plant is a fantastic choice for any office setting—especially one without windows.
5) ZZ Plant (Zamioculcasi)
The ZZ Plant is one of the most resilient indoor plants, capable of thriving in low-light environments and requiring minimal care. Its thick, waxy leaves store water efficiently, making it highly drought-tolerant.
This plant is an excellent choice for a windowless office, as it can survive with artificial lighting alone. Additionally, the ZZ Plant is known for its air-purifying abilities, helping to remove toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene from indoor air.
Care Tips for ZZ Plant
- Light Requirements: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light and can adapt to fluorescent office lighting.
- Watering Needs: Water once every 2–3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Soil: Prefers a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of cactus soil and perlite.
- Bonus Tip: If you notice yellowing leaves, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
The ZZ Plant’s hardiness, low maintenance, and ability to thrive in artificial light make it one of the best office plants for a windowless space.
6) Areca Palm
The Areca Palm, also known as the Butterfly Palm, is a popular indoor plant that adds a touch of tropical elegance to any workspace. While it thrives in bright, indirect light, it can also adapt to artificial lighting, making it a suitable choice for windowless offices.
Beyond aesthetics, the Areca Palm is known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins and improve indoor air quality.
Care Tips for Areca Palm
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate fluorescent office lighting. Avoid prolonged exposure to low light, as this may slow its growth.
- Watering Needs: Keep the soil evenly moist, watering once a week. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
- Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity. Consider placing a humidifier nearby or misting occasionally.
- Soil: Use well-draining potting mix with peat or perlite for aeration.
With its graceful, arching fronds and low-maintenance care, the Areca Palm is a fantastic choice for bringing a lively, refreshing feel to office spaces—even without natural light.
7) Maidenhair Fern
The Maidenhair Fern is prized for its delicate, feathery foliage and elegant appearance, making it a beautiful addition to any office. Unlike many other ferns, it thrives in low-light conditions and high humidity, making it well-suited for spaces with artificial lighting and limited airflow.
Care Tips for Maidenhair Fern
- Light Requirements: Prefers low to moderate indirect light and adapts well to fluorescent office lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate fronds.
- Watering Needs: Requires consistent moisture. Water whenever the topsoil feels slightly dry, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity—consider placing a small humidifier nearby or misting the leaves regularly to prevent them from drying out.
- Soil: Prefers rich, well-draining soil with good moisture retention, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil.
- Bonus Tip: This fern is sensitive to dry air and drafts, so keep it away from air vents and heaters.
With its lush, airy foliage and graceful charm, the Maidenhair Fern brings a touch of nature to any windowless workspace, creating a calm and refreshing atmosphere.
8) Philodendron
Philodendrons are among the best indoor plants for low-light environments, making them an excellent choice for a windowless office. These tropical plants are highly adaptable and can thrive under fluorescent lighting, requiring minimal care while providing a lush, vibrant look to any workspace.
With their trailing vines or upright growth, philodendrons can be placed on desks, shelves, or hanging planters, enhancing the aesthetics of an office without demanding much attention.
Care Tips for Philodendron
- Light Requirements: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light and can survive under artificial office lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Watering Needs: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has proper drainage.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with good aeration. A standard indoor potting mix works well.
- Bonus Tip: Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, which helps the plant absorb light more effectively.
Philodendrons are easy to care for, fast-growing, and excellent air purifiers, making them a fantastic choice for a workspace without natural sunlight.
Can an Indoor Plant Bring Creatures into The Office?
Indoor plants can sometimes attract small pests like gnats, spider mites, or aphids, especially in humid environments.
However, proper care, including well-draining soil, regular inspections, and avoiding overwatering, can prevent infestations. Learn how to keep your office plants pest-free while enjoying their benefits.
Do Indoor Plants Attract Bugs?
While rare, indoor plants can sometimes harbor pests due to moist soil and organic matter. Common culprits include:
- Fungus Gnats – Thrive in overly damp soil.
- Spider Mites – Found on dusty, dry leaves.
- Aphids – Feed on plant sap, causing leaf damage.
How to Prevent Pests in Office Plants
- Use well-draining soil to prevent excess moisture buildup.
- Avoid overwatering, as damp conditions attract gnats.
- Regularly inspect leaves and soil for signs of pests.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to deter mites.
- Introduce natural deterrents, like neem oil or sticky traps.
By maintaining proper plant care and keeping the office environment clean, you can enjoy greenery without the worry of pests.
What Plant Allergies are There to Look Out for in Office?
While indoor plants offer numerous benefits, some can trigger allergies, leading to discomfort for sensitive individuals.
The most common allergens in office plants include pollen, mold, and plant sap, which may cause symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or skin irritation. Below, we explore common plant-related allergens and how to minimize risks.
1. Pollen Allergies
Certain flowering plants release airborne pollen, which can trigger hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Common symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
🚫 Avoid these plants:
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Chrysanthemums
- Ficus Trees
✅ Better alternatives:
- Snake Plant
- ZZ Plant
- Areca Palm
2. Mold-Related Allergies
Overwatering indoor plants can lead to mold growth in the soil, which releases spores into the air. Mold exposure can cause respiratory issues, congestion, and sinus infections.
💡 Prevention Tips:
- Use well-draining soil to prevent excess moisture.
- Water plants only when the topsoil feels dry.
- Improve air circulation with a fan or air purifier.
3. Contact Dermatitis (Sap Irritation)
Some plants contain irritating sap or latex that can cause skin rashes or itching upon contact. This is common when trimming or repotting plants.
🚫 Plants to be cautious with:
- Ficus (Rubber Plant)
- Philodendron
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
✅ Safe alternatives:
- Boston Fern
- Spider Plant
- Cast Iron Plant
How to Make an Allergy-Friendly Office Space
- Choose low-pollen plants that don’t release airborne allergens.
- Wipe leaves regularly to prevent dust buildup.
- Space out plants to improve airflow and reduce mold risk.
- Use gloves when handling sap-producing plants.
By selecting the right plants and maintaining them properly, you can enjoy a greener, healthier office without triggering allergies.
How to Prevent and Manage Plant Allergies in an Office?
Office plant allergies can be managed with smart plant selection, regular maintenance, and allergy-friendly practices. By reducing allergens like pollen, mold, and sap exposure, you can create a comfortable and healthy workspace. Below are the best ways to prevent and handle plant-related allergies effectively.
1. Choose Hypoallergenic Plants
Selecting low-pollen, non-toxic plants reduces the risk of allergic reactions.
✅ Best hypoallergenic plants for offices:
- Snake Plant – Filters air pollutants with minimal pollen release.
- Areca Palm – A natural humidifier with low allergen levels.
- Parlor Palm – Non-toxic and excellent for air purification.
🚫 Avoid high-allergen plants like Ficus, Peace Lily, and Chrysanthemums.
2. Improve Air Quality
Better air circulation helps minimize pollen, dust, and mold spores.
💡 Tips for cleaner air:
- Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
- Open windows occasionally to improve ventilation.
- Place plants near sunlight to prevent mold growth.
3. Maintain Proper Plant Care
Regular maintenance keeps allergens at bay and ensures plant health.
🌱 Essential care tips:
- Wipe leaves weekly to remove dust and allergens.
- Water correctly to prevent moldy soil. (Let soil dry before watering.)
- Trim dead leaves to reduce pollen and decay.
4. Limit Contact with Irritating Plants
If you or colleagues have sensitive skin, avoid direct contact with plants that release sap.
🧤 Prevention methods:
- Wear gloves when pruning or repotting.
- Wash hands immediately after handling plants.
- Use plant-friendly pot covers to minimize exposure to soil allergens.
5. Monitor and Adjust Accordingly
If allergy symptoms persist, consider:
✅ Relocating high-allergen plants to less populated areas.
✅ Using non-soil plant setups like hydroponics or air plants.
✅ Consulting an allergist for personalized advice.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of office greenery without triggering allergies. A well-managed plant environment leads to a healthier, more productive workspace! 🌿
Final Thoughts: Best Plants to Have in an Office with no Windows
Caring for indoor plants in an office with no windows might seem challenging, but the plants listed above prove otherwise. These resilient varieties require minimal upkeep while providing a refreshing touch of greenery, improving air quality, and enhancing mood.
If you’re just starting, snake plants and spider plants are the best low-maintenance options. Once you’re comfortable, you can expand your collection with maidenhair ferns or areca palms to create a more vibrant workspace.
With the right plants, your office can become a more inviting and refreshing place, helping you feel more connected to nature—even without natural sunlight. Choose the best plant that suits your space and enjoy the benefits of a greener workplace! 🌿
About the Author:
Saad Ansar
Saad is an avid gardener himself and is a great lover of plants, animals, photography, & people. Currently, he is focused on photographing indoor plants & captioning beautiful outdoor sceneries. He writes and rewrites in depth articles on nature and science.